Nationality: Mosotho

Institution: University of the Witwatersrand

Department: Evolutionary Studies Institute

PAST programme support: Degree support

Research title: History of San and Basotho indigenous palaeontology

“I am Nteboheleng Mokhohlane, born and raised in Lesotho and one of seven siblings. I hold a BSc in Biology and Chemistry and am currently pursuing an Honours degree in Palaeontology.”

My academic journey has been shaped by a deep curiosity about the natural world and a strong passion for understanding the deep history of life, particularly from an African perspective.

Currently I am working on a project titled “The History of San and Basotho Indigenous palaeontology.”. This research explores the traditional knowledge systems of the San and Basotho people and their historical relationships with fossils and the natural world. I am particularly interested in how indigenous perspectives can enrich scientific narratives and how Africa’s cultural and scientific heritage can be more meaningfully integrated into palaeontology.

I am passionate about contributing to the growth of palaeontological research in Africa.